Shenandoah University Center for the Arts Groundbreaking Armstrong Concert Hall Emanuele Andrizzi, Artistic Director & Conductor The Great Join the Symphony Orchestra for an evening of orchestral masterworks filled with drama, lyricism and virtuosic brilliance. The program opens with Carl Maria von Weber’s exhilarating Overture to Der Freischütz, a cornerstone of German Romanticism whose vivid orchestration and dramatic storytelling helped shape the future of opera. The orchestra is then joined by saxophone soloist Coleman Wright ’28 (D.M.A. in Performance) for Henri Tomasi’s Concerto for Alto Saxophone and Orchestra, a colorful and expressive showcase that blends brilliance, virtuosity and French sophistication. One of the most beloved works in the saxophone repertoire, the concerto highlights the instrument’s remarkable range of character and emotion. The evening concludes with Franz Schubert’s monumental Symphony No. 9 in C Major, known as “The Great.” Expansive in scale and brimming with lyrical beauty, rhythmic vitality and orchestral grandeur, this beloved masterpiece showcases Schubert’s remarkable gift for melody and symphonic storytelling. Together, these works create a captivating journey through drama, virtuosity and the extraordinary expressive power of the orchestra. Program Carl Maria von WeberOverture to Der Freischütz (The Marksman), op. 77Henri TomasiConcerto pour saxophone alto et orchestreFranz SchubertSymphony No. 9 in C Major, D. 944 (“The Great”) Digital Program Shenandoah Conservatory uses digital programs for all performances. In addition to their engaging and accessible design, digital programs are cost effective, environmentally friendly and enable us to create and update our programs more efficiently, which means we can focus our resources on the performances you love! View our digital programs by clicking the button above, scanning the QR code in our venue or texting PROGRAM to (540) 307-2336 at the performance. [Note: Digital programs are best viewed on your mobile or tablet device.] View Digital Program

The Symphony Orchestra performs works by Carl Maria von Weber, Henri Tomasi, and Franz Schubert.

Vietnamese guitarist An Tran performs a program showcasing the classical guitar's range and beauty.

Shenandoah University Center for the Arts Groundbreaking Goodson Chapel – Recital Hall Guest Artist Recital Experience an evening of captivating artistry with Vietnamese guitarist An Tran. Praised by The Boston Globe for his “subtle, graceful virtuosity” and by Soundboard magazine for an “exquisite sense of space, touch, and mood,” Tran approaches performance with purpose, guided by a belief in music as a shared human experience. Known for his expressive musicianship and innovative approach to the classical guitar, Tran presents a compelling program that blends technical brilliance with emotional depth, showcasing the instrument’s remarkable range and beauty. Digital Program Shenandoah Conservatory uses digital programs for all performances. In addition to their engaging and accessible design, digital programs are cost effective, environmentally friendly and enable us to create and update our programs more efficiently, which means we can focus our resources on the performances you love! View our digital programs by clicking the button above, scanning the QR code in our venue or texting PROGRAM to (540) 307-2336 at the performance. [Note: Digital programs are best viewed on your mobile or tablet device.] View Digital Program

An intimate concert blending live music with guided mindfulness practices, featuring guitarist Colin Davin.

Shenandoah University Center for the Arts Groundbreaking Goodson Chapel – Recital Hall Created in partnership with Carnegie Hall’s Weill Music Institute Jess Bertin, host Slow down, listen deeply and reconnect through the power of live music. Guitarist Colin Davin launches Shenandoah Conservatory’s new Well-Being Concert series with an intimate, hour-long experience blending music by Bach, Brouwer and Reich with guided mindfulness and reflection. About Well-Being Concerts Music has the power to calm, restore, inspire and connect. Created in partnership with Carnegie Hall’s Weill Music Institute, Shenandoah Conservatory’s Well-Being Concerts reimagine the traditional concert experience as a space for reflection, mindfulness and human connection. These intimate, hour-long events blend live music with guided mindfulness practices, creating a welcoming environment designed to invite audiences to slow down, listen deeply and engage with music in a meaningful way. Rooted in growing research on the relationship between music and well-being, the series creates space for participants to experience music not simply as entertainment, but as a source of renewal, resilience and shared understanding. Join us after each Well-Being Concert for light refreshments in the lobby. Reservations are recommended. A suggested contribution of $10 helps support the series, but you are welcome to reserve your seat at whatever amount is right for you. Everyone is welcome. Program Leo BrouwerEl Decamerón NegroJohann Sebastian BachViolin Sonata No. 3 in C Major, BWV 1005Steve ReichElectric Counterpoint Digital Program Shenandoah Conservatory uses digital programs for all performances. In addition to their engaging and accessible design, digital programs are cost effective, environmentally friendly and enable us to create and update our programs more efficiently, which means we can focus our resources on the performances you love! View our digital programs by clicking the button above, scanning the QR code in our venue or texting PROGRAM to (540) 307-2336 at the performance. [Note: Digital programs are best viewed on your mobile or tablet device.] View Digital Program This project was supported, in part, by the Virginia Commission for the Arts, which receives support from the Virginia General Assembly.

Shenandoah University Center for the Arts Groundbreaking Ohrstrom-Bryant Theatre Thursday, October 8 at 7:30PMFriday, October 9 at 7:30PMSaturday, October 10 at 2:30PMSaturday, October 10 at 7:30PMSunday, October 11 at 2:30PM Book by Abe Burrows, Jack Weinstock and Willie GilbertMusic and lyrics by Frank LoesserBased on How to Succeed in Business without Really Trying by Shepherd Mead Directed by Kevin CovertChoreography by Michaeljon SlingerMusic direction by Patrick BradySet design by R. Eric StoneLighting design by Andrew CarsonCostume design by Shelbi Wilkin Big business means big laughs in this delightfully clever lampoon of life on the corporate ladder. A tune-filled comic gem that took Broadway by storm, winning both the Tony Award for Best Musical and a Pulitzer Prize, How to Succeed in Business without Really Trying boasts an exhilarating score by Frank Loesser, including “I Believe in You,” “Brotherhood of Man” and “The Company Way.” A satire of big business and all it holds sacred, How to Succeed in Business without Really Trying follows the rise of J. Pierrepont Finch, who uses a little handbook called How to Succeed in Business without Really Trying to climb the corporate ladder from lowly window washer to high-powered executive, tackling such familiar but potent dangers as the aggressively compliant “company man,” the office party, backstabbing coworkers, caffeine addiction and, of course, true love. An irreverent and tuneful romp, jam-packed with sly, swift and sharp jabs to the funny bone, How to Succeed in Business without Really Trying is a surefire hit! Suggested Show Rating: PG Digital Program Shenandoah Conservatory uses digital programs for all performances. In addition to their engaging and accessible design, digital programs are cost effective, environmentally friendly and enable us to create and update our programs more efficiently, which means we can focus our resources on the performances you love! View our digital programs by clicking the button above, scanning the QR code in our venue or texting PROGRAM to (540) 307-2336 at the performance. [Note: Digital programs are best viewed on your mobile or tablet device.] View Digital Program This performance is sponsored by Crescent Cities Charities, providing educational assistance to promising students with financial need, and supporting charities and community organizations. Learn more at cccharities.org. This performance is made possible by Warfel Construction. Visit www.warfelcc.com to learn more. Make Dinner Part of the Show! Complete your theatre experience with a special three-course dinner at Mangia Cucina Italiana — available before or after the performance for just $30 per guest. Salad Caesar SaladMangia Salad Entrée Salmon FlorentineChicken ParmesanLasagna Bolognese Dessert CannoliGelato Choose from a Caesar or Mangia salad, followed by Salmon Florentine, Chicken Parmesan or Lasagna Bolognese, and finish with cannoli or gelato. Reserve your table by calling (540) 773-1303 or visiting mangiacucinaitaliana.com. Mangia is located at 242 Millwood Ave. in Winchester, Virginia. Pre-show diners should allow at least one hour for their meal.

Shenandoah University Center for the Arts Groundbreaking Armstrong Concert Hall Jazz & Commercial Music The Big Band Workshop (Alphonso Young, Jr., director) presents an exciting concert celebrating the sound and spirit of big band music across the decades. From the swing era to contemporary jazz, this performance traces the evolution of America’s big band tradition through timeless music, iconic styles and fresh interpretations. Digital Program Shenandoah Conservatory uses digital programs for all performances. In addition to their engaging and accessible design, digital programs are cost effective, environmentally friendly and enable us to create and update our programs more efficiently, which means we can focus our resources on the performances you love! View our digital programs by clicking the button above, scanning the QR code in our venue or texting PROGRAM to (540) 307-2336 at the performance. [Note: Digital programs are best viewed on your mobile or tablet device.] View Digital Program

The Big Band Workshop presents a concert celebrating big band music across the decades.

The Symphonic Band presents an evening of works for symphonic winds.

Shenandoah University Center for the Arts Groundbreaking Armstrong Concert Hall Shaun Evans, Conductor The Symphonic Band presents an evening of works for symphonic winds under the direction of Shaun Evans. Digital Program Shenandoah Conservatory uses digital programs for all performances. In addition to their engaging and accessible design, digital programs are cost effective, environmentally friendly and enable us to create and update our programs more efficiently, which means we can focus our resources on the performances you love! View our digital programs by clicking the button above, scanning the QR code in our venue or texting PROGRAM to (540) 307-2336 at the performance. [Note: Digital programs are best viewed on your mobile or tablet device.] View Digital Program

Shenandoah University Center for the Arts Groundbreaking Celebrate a landmark moment for Shenandoah Conservatory as we break ground on the Shenandoah University Center for the Arts, a bold, state-of-the-art space designed to foster creativity, performance and community. Taking place on the lawn in front of Ohrstrom-Bryant Theatre, this special ceremony marks an exciting milestone in the future of the arts at Shenandoah.

The Bass Ensemble performs a program spanning jazz, classical, and folk traditions.

Shenandoah University Center for the Arts Groundbreaking Goodson Chapel – Recital Hall Join the Bass Ensemble for an engaging performance celebrating the remarkable versatility and expressive range of the double bass. Directed by Donovan Stokes, the ensemble presents a vibrant program spanning jazz, classical and folk traditions, showcasing the instrument in both familiar and unexpected ways. Program highlights include music by Antônio Carlos Jobim, Simón García and Inez Wyrick, alongside traditional tunes reimagined through a variety of musical styles. From lyrical melodies and rhythmic vitality to rich ensemble textures and virtuosic playing, this dynamic concert demonstrates the artistry, flexibility and distinctive voice of the bass in an unforgettable afternoon of music. Digital Program Shenandoah Conservatory uses digital programs for all performances. In addition to their engaging and accessible design, digital programs are cost effective, environmentally friendly and enable us to create and update our programs more efficiently, which means we can focus our resources on the performances you love! View our digital programs by clicking the button above, scanning the QR code in our venue or texting PROGRAM to (540) 307-2336 at the performance. [Note: Digital programs are best viewed on your mobile or tablet device.] View Digital Program

Shenandoah University Center for the Arts Groundbreaking Armstrong Concert Hall Jazz & Commercial Music The Commercial Rock Ensemble (Matthew Niess, director) presents a high-energy concert celebrating the full spectrum of rock and commercial music. From classic rock, pop, funk, soul, R&B, blues, alternative, progressive rock and contemporary hits, this performance showcases the power and versatility of today’s commercial music styles. Featuring dynamic vocals, driving rhythm section, electric guitars, horns and powerful ensemble playing, this concert brings together iconic songs and fresh arrangements for an exciting night of live music. Digital Program Shenandoah Conservatory uses digital programs for all performances. In addition to their engaging and accessible design, digital programs are cost effective, environmentally friendly and enable us to create and update our programs more efficiently, which means we can focus our resources on the performances you love! View our digital programs by clicking the button above, scanning the QR code in our venue or texting PROGRAM to (540) 307-2336 at the performance. [Note: Digital programs are best viewed on your mobile or tablet device.] View Digital Program

The Commercial Rock Ensemble presents a concert celebrating rock and commercial music.

Shenandoah University Center for the Arts Groundbreaking Armstrong Concert Hall Join Shenandoah Conservatory’s John O’Conor as he speaks with Sara Davis Buechner about her career and upcoming program featuring works by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Carl Maria von Weber, Maurice Ravel and Francis Poulenc. This pre-concert talk is included as a free event with ticket purchase to its associated World of the Piano performance. Join the Piano Society Join Friends of the Conservatory at the Ally level or above and designate your gift to World of the Piano to become a member of our Piano Society! In addition to being listed in each World of the Piano program, members receive all Ally benefits plus access to exclusive Piano Society events. Join the Piano Society

Acclaimed pianist Sara Davis Buechner performs works by Mozart, Weber, Ravel, and Poulenc.

Shenandoah University Center for the Arts Groundbreaking Armstrong Concert Hall Acclaimed pianist Sara Davis Buechner returns to the Shenandoah stage for an afternoon of extraordinary artistry, technical brilliance and interpretive insight. Praised by The New York Times for her “intelligence, integrity and all-encompassing technical prowess” and celebrated internationally for her virtuosity and expressive depth, Buechner has earned top prizes at many of the world’s most prestigious piano competitions, including the Queen Elisabeth, Leeds, Salzburg, Sydney and Vienna competitions. She was awarded the gold medal at the Gina Bachauer International Piano Competition and a bronze medal at the Tchaikovsky International Piano Competition in Moscow. A sought-after soloist with a repertoire encompassing more than 125 piano concertos, Buechner has performed with leading orchestras around the world and is renowned for the breadth of her musical interests, from the standard concert repertoire to acclaimed performances and recordings of silent film scores. Her distinguished career has established her as one of today’s most versatile and compelling pianists. In addition to her international performing career, Buechner serves as piano chair of Greenwich House Music School, professor of piano at Temple University and adjunct professor at New York University. A dedicated educator, advocate and longtime Yamaha Artist, she continues to inspire audiences around the globe through performances of remarkable artistry and imagination. The afternoon’s program highlights Buechner’s exceptional range as an interpreter, opening with Mozart’s dramatic Fantasy and Sonata in C Minor, K. 475/457 and continuing with Weber’s expansive and virtuosic Sonata in C Major, op. 24. Ravel’s elegant Valses nobles et sentimentales and Poulenc’s colorful, imaginative Les Soirées de Nazelles complete a recital rich in character, sophistication and expressive depth.  This performance is made possible by Marjorie and John Lewis in honor of John O’Conor. Program Wolfgang Amadeus MozartFantasy and Sonata in C Minor KV 475/457Carl Maria von WeberSonata in C Major, op. 24Maurice RavelValses Nobles et SentimentalesFrancis PoulencLes Soirées de Nazelles Pre-concert Talk Sunday, October 25 at 1:30PM | Armstrong Concert Hall Join us on the Sunday of each World of the Piano performance at 1:30PM in Armstrong Concert Hall for a Pre-Concert Talk! Learn about the artist’s program from Shenandoah Conservatory faculty and special guests. Piano Masterclass Monday, October 26 at 10AM | Armstrong Concert Hall Observe the guest artists as they work with Shenandoah Conservatory piano students. Masterclasses are typically held on the Monday following each World of the Piano performance from 10AM to noon in Armstrong Concert Hall. Limited seating is open to the public for quiet observation. Please arrive by 9:45AM. Join the Piano Society Join Friends of the Conservatory at the Ally level or above and designate your gift to World of the Piano to become a member of our Piano Society! In addition to being listed in each World of the Piano program, members receive all Ally benefits plus access to exclusive Piano Society events. Join the Piano Society

Shenandoah University Center for the Arts Groundbreaking Armstrong Concert Hall Observe Sara Davis Buechner’s masterclass with our keyboard students. Limited seating is open to the public for quiet observation. Please arrive by 9:45AM. Join the Piano Society Join Friends of the Conservatory at the Ally level or above and designate your gift to World of the Piano to become a member of our Piano Society! In addition to being listed in each World of the Piano program, members receive all Ally benefits plus access to exclusive Piano Society events. Join the Piano Society

Cellist Julian Schwarz and pianist Marika Bournaki perform works by Arthur Foote and Michael Ippolito.

Shenandoah University Center for the Arts Groundbreaking Goodson Chapel – Recital Hall Faculty Recital America @ 250: Arthur Foote Album Release Celebrate the richness of American music through an evening featuring cellist Julian Schwarz and pianist Marika Bournaki. Highlighting the release of their new Delos recording, Arthur Foote’s Complete Cello Works (available August 28), the recital features Foote’s Three Pieces, op. 1, Michael Ippolito’s Sonata for Cello and Piano — written especially for Schwarz and Bournaki — and Julian Schwarz’s arrangement of Korngold’s beloved Much Ado about Nothing Suite, op. 11. Spanning lyrical Romanticism and vibrant contemporary voices, this special program celebrates the enduring artistry and evolution of American classical music.

Shenandoah University Center for the Arts Groundbreaking Glaize Studio Theatre Wednesday, October 28 at 7:30PMThursday, October 29 at 7:30PMFriday, October 30 at 7:30PMSaturday, October 31 at 2:30PMSaturday, October 31 at 7:30PMSunday, November 1 at 2:30PMSunday, November 1 at 7:30PM Book by Roberto Aguirre-SacasaMusic and lyrics by Duncan SheikBased on the novel by Bret Easton Ellis Directed by Andy MientusChoreography by Ashley Elizabeth HaleMusic direction by Joshua TregreSet design by Bethany KasperekLighting design by Zoe AndersonCostume design by Eleanor Hawkins American Psycho is a ruthless and daring musical from Duncan Sheik (Spring Awakening) and Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa (Riverdale, The Muckle Man, The Picture of Dorian Gray). Based on the electrifying novel by Bret Easton Ellis, the musical follows Patrick Bateman, a young and handsome Wall Street banker whose life revolves around designer labels, exclusive restaurants and relentless ambition. Beneath his polished exterior, however, lurks a far darker reality — and the carefully constructed mask he presents to the world is beginning to crack. Guest directed by Andy Mientus, this production is boldly reimagined for an intimate performance space, plunging audiences into the seductive excess and moral emptiness of 1980s Manhattan. Driven by a pulsating score, razor-sharp satire and psychological suspense, American Psycho explores the dark intersections of identity, status and obsession in a society consumed by appearances. Provocative, stylish and unsettling, this electrifying musical thriller challenges audiences to look beneath the surface and confront the dangers of a culture where image reigns supreme. Suggested Show Rating: R This production contains blood, violence, sexual themes, and adult language.

Shenandoah University Center for the Arts Groundbreaking Bright Box Theater Shenandoah New Music Take your preconceptions of ‘noise’ and toss them out the window. Equal parts “fiendishly good and fiendishly goofy” (Chicago Tribune), ~Nois Quartet is a “prolific, charismatic young ensemble that is swiftly becoming the American saxophone quartet du jour” (Musical America). At the core of ~Nois’ ethos is a fierce dedication to the commissioning of living composers, leading to more than 120 world premieres. Founded in 2016, this award-winning Chicago-based ensemble is dedicated to championing new music for saxophone and building community through innovative, inclusive and exceptional musical experiences.

The ~Nois Quartet performs new music for saxophone, championing living composers.

Shenandoah University Center for the Arts Groundbreaking Ohrstrom-Bryant Theatre Friday, October 30 at 7:30PMSaturday, October 31 at 7:30PMSunday, November 1 at 2:30PM Join the Dance Ensemble for an unforgettable program of movement, artistry and innovation. Showcasing a dynamic range of styles from contemporary to street, this captivating performance highlights the versatility, athleticism and expressive power of Shenandoah’s talented dancers. The program features original works by faculty choreographers Angela Dice Nguyen, Ben Howard and Katherine Zukeri, alongside a special guest work by Ali Koinoglou that sparks the imagination. Pre- and Post-Performance Discussions Enhance your experience through pre- and post-performance discussions with the choreographers and special guests. Details about these engagement opportunities will be shared as they become available.

Van Buren Winds Goodson Chapel – Recital Hall Experience the bold, resonant sound of the Trombone Collective as members of the ensemble take the stage for their fall concert. Under the direction of Director of Jazz & Commercial Music and Associate Professor of Trombone Matthew Niess, the ensemble showcases the remarkable range and versatility of the trombone through a dynamic program of music spanning styles and traditions. From rich harmonies and lyrical melodies to powerful ensemble playing, this concert celebrates the distinctive voice and collaborative spirit of the trombone.

The Trombone Collective showcases the range and versatility of the trombone.

Shenandoah University Center for the Arts Groundbreaking Goodson Chapel – Recital Hall Friday, November 6 at 7:30PMSaturday, November 7 at 2:30PM Opera Up Close Created and directed by Byron Jones, this year’s Opera Up Close presents O Music of the Powers!, an evening of songs, arias and spoken text examining the themes of love, loss and the transformative power of music. Created and directed by Byron JonesMusical preparation by Maja Tremiszewska Suggested Show Rating: PG-13 Pre-Show Lecture Friday, November 6 at 6:30PMSaturday, November 7 at 1:30PM Enhance your experience by joining us for a pre-show lecture beginning one hour before each Opera Up Close performance.

Shenandoah University Center for the Arts Groundbreaking Armstrong Concert Hall Timothy J. Robblee, Artistic Director & Conductor Shifting Shadows Experience an evening of bold contemporary music as the Wind Ensemble explores works that push the boundaries of sound, color and imagination. The program opens with Paul Dooley’s Masks and Machines, a dynamic work that contrasts human expression with mechanical energy, before featuring guitarist Colin Davin as soloist in Jim Bonney’s electrifying DARKlightNESS, a concerto for electric guitar and wind ensemble that navigates striking contrasts of intensity, texture and atmosphere. The performance concludes with Sinfonia by Zhou Tian, a vibrant and compelling work by one of today’s leading composers. Together, these pieces showcase the innovative spirit of contemporary wind ensemble music through powerful rhythms, vivid orchestration and adventurous sonic landscapes.

The Wind Ensemble performs contemporary works by Paul Dooley, Jim Bonney, and Zhou Tian.

Shenandoah University Center for the Arts Groundbreaking Armstrong Concert Hall Jazz & Commercial Music Celebrating Veterans Day & America’s 250th The Studio Big Band (Matthew Niess, director) honors America’s veterans with a tribute celebrating service, sacrifice and jazz as America’s art form. Presented in recognition of Veterans Day and America’s 250th anniversary, this concert reflects on our nation’s history through the enduring spirit of jazz. Featuring special guest soloist Jens Lindemann, the program showcases swinging big band music, patriotic favorites, the Armed Forces Service Medley and inspiring selections that honor those who served. Join us for an afternoon of remembrance, gratitude and celebration as we pay tribute to America’s veterans.

The Studio Big Band honors America's veterans with a tribute concert.

The Guitar Ensemble presents a program celebrating the classical guitar's artistry and versatility.

Shenandoah University Center for the Arts Groundbreaking Goodson Chapel – Recital Hall Under the direction of Colin Davin, the Guitar Ensemble presents an engaging evening celebrating the artistry, versatility and expressive possibilities of the classical guitar. Featuring a diverse repertoire spanning musical styles, cultures and eras, the ensemble showcases the rich colors and collaborative spirit that define guitar chamber music. From intricate counterpoint and lyrical melodies to vibrant rhythms and dynamic ensemble playing, this concert highlights the exceptional musicianship of Shenandoah Conservatory’s guitar students in a program that celebrates the beauty and boundless potential of the guitar ensemble.

An intimate concert blending live music with guided mindfulness practices, featuring The Naghash Ensemble.

Shenandoah University Center for the Arts Groundbreaking Goodson Chapel – Recital Hall Created in partnership with Carnegie Hall’s Weill Music Institute Jess Bertin, host Find a moment of stillness and connection with The Naghash Ensemble, whose mesmerizing music brings together the sounds of Armenian folk traditions, new classical music and contemporary post-minimalism. This intimate Well-Being Concert pairs the ensemble’s evocative music with guided mindfulness and reflection, inviting audiences to listen deeply and experience music in a new way. About Well-Being Concerts Music has the power to calm, restore, inspire and connect. Created in partnership with Carnegie Hall’s Weill Music Institute, Shenandoah Conservatory’s Well-Being Concerts reimagine the traditional concert experience as a space for reflection, mindfulness and human connection. These intimate, hour-long events blend live music with guided mindfulness practices, creating a welcoming environment designed to invite audiences to slow down, listen deeply and engage with music in a meaningful way. Rooted in growing research on the relationship between music and well-being, the series creates space for participants to experience music not simply as entertainment, but as a source of renewal, resilience and shared understanding. Join us after each Well-Being Concert for light refreshments in the lobby. Reservations are recommended. A suggested contribution of $10 helps support the series, but you are welcome to reserve your seat at whatever amount is right for you. Everyone is welcome. This project was supported, in part, by the Virginia Commission for the Arts, which receives support from the Virginia General Assembly.

Shenandoah University Center for the Arts Groundbreaking Goodson Chapel – Recital Hall Presented in an intimate candlelight setting, The Naghash Ensemble of Armenia creates an immersive musical experience unlike any other. Created by Armenian-American composer John Hodian and inspired by sacred texts from medieval Armenian mystic and priest Mkrtich Naghash, the ensemble’s music blends the earthy spirituality of folk song with new classical music, contemporary post-minimalism and the energy of jazz and rock. Three luminous female vocalists joined by master musicians on duduk, oud, dhol and piano form this internationally acclaimed ensemble, creating a sound world that feels both ancient and strikingly contemporary. Profoundly moving and deeply immersive, Songs of Exile offers an evening of reflection, beauty and transcendent musical storytelling — part folk music, part classical and wholly unforgettable. An enchanting elixir of sounds based on new Armenian folk and centuries-old poetry”– KEXP A moment of grace and meditation”– Rolling Stone This engagement of The Naghash Ensemble of Armenia is made possible in part through the Mid Atlantic Presenter Initiatives program of Mid Atlantic Arts with support from the National Endowment for the Arts. Support Performing Arts Live Performing Arts Live (PAL) is supported in part by the L.P. “Skip” and Anne Hughes Hill Visiting Artist Endowment, honoring the legacy of L.P. “Skip” Hill and Anne Hughes Hill. Making a donation to the Hill Visiting Artist Endowment grows support for Performing Arts Live. Learn More & Give Now

The Naghash Ensemble performs a program blending Armenian folk and contemporary music.

Shenandoah University Center for the Arts Groundbreaking Armstrong Concert Hall Emanuele Andrizzi, Artistic Director & Conductor Bruckner 4 Join the Symphony Orchestra for a monumental performance of Anton Bruckner’s Symphony No. 4 in E-flat Major, the beloved “Romantic” Symphony. Inspired by images of medieval castles, hunts, forests and sweeping landscapes, this expansive masterpiece transports audiences through a richly imagined world of grandeur, mystery and triumph. Widely regarded as one of Bruckner’s most accessible and enduring works, his fourth symphony showcases the composer’s signature blend of soaring melodies, majestic brass writing and monumental architectural design. From its noble horn calls to its exhilarating finale, the work unfolds on an epic scale, revealing the emotional depth and spiritual power that have made Bruckner one of the great symphonic voices of the nineteenth century. Experience an unforgettable evening as the Symphony Orchestra brings this towering masterpiece to life, inviting audiences on a journey through one of the most compelling and evocative works in the orchestral repertoire. Program Anton BrucknerSymphony No. 4 in E-flat Major, WAB 104

The Symphony Orchestra performs Anton Bruckner's Symphony No. 4 in E-flat Major.

Shenandoah University Center for the Arts Groundbreaking Ohrstrom-Bryant Theatre Thursday, November 19 at 7:30PMFriday, November 20 at 7:30PMSaturday, November 21 at 2:30PMSaturday, November 21 at 7:30PMSunday, November 22 at 2:30PM Based on the screenplay by Marc Norman and Tom StoppardAdapted for the stage by Lee HallMusic by Paddy CunneenOriginally produced on the West End by Disney Theatrical Group & Sonia Friedman Productions, directed by Declan Donnellan, and designed by Nick Ormerod Directed by Aubrey Deeker HernandezFight choreography by Kit WilderSet design by R. Eric StoneLighting design by Andrew CarsonCostume design by Samantha Hicks Penniless and indebted to two demanding producers, struggling young playwright William Shakespeare is tormented by writer’s block until he meets the beautiful Viola de Lesseps, daughter of a wealthy merchant, whose fiery passion for poetry and drama leaves her secretly longing to be an actor. Both are despondent when they learn that Viola’s father has promised her to the stuffy Lord Wessex in order to gain a title for their family. Under the veil of secrecy, Will and Viola’s passionate love affair becomes the basis of the very play he is writing, Romeo and Juliet. With opening night and the wedding day fast approaching, the plots race toward a parallel conclusion. Will it all work out in the end or are the two star-crossed lovers destined for tragedy? Suggested Show Rating: PG

Shenandoah University Center for the Arts Groundbreaking Goodson Chapel – Recital Hall Experience the bold, resonant sound of the Trombone Collective as members of the ensemble take the stage for their fall concert. Under the direction of Director of Jazz & Commercial Music and Associate Professor of Trombone Matthew Niess, the ensemble showcases the remarkable range and versatility of the trombone through a dynamic program of music spanning styles and traditions. From rich harmonies and lyrical melodies to powerful ensemble playing, this concert celebrates the distinctive voice and collaborative spirit of the trombone.

Shenandoah University Center for the Arts Groundbreaking Goodson Chapel – Recital Hall Celebrate the artistry of Shenandoah Conservatory’s outstanding instrumental students in the Honors Chamber Music Recital. Featuring select student ensembles performing a diverse program of classical chamber music repertoire, this special concert showcases exceptional musicianship, expressive artistry and the dynamic collaboration at the heart of chamber music. Experience the next generation of classical artists as they bring beloved and compelling works to life in an intimate performance setting.

Shenandoah University Center for the Arts Groundbreaking Goodson Chapel – Recital Hall Experience the vibrant colors and expressive range of the flute as members of the Flute Ensemble take the stage for their fall concert. Under the direction of Assistant Professor of Flute Julietta Curenton, the ensemble presents a varied program showcasing the instrument’s remarkable versatility, from delicate lyricism and shimmering textures to spirited rhythms and dynamic ensemble playing. Celebrate the artistry and collaborative musicianship of Shenandoah Conservatory’s flutists in an engaging evening of music.

Shenandoah University Center for the Arts Groundbreaking Goodson Chapel – Recital Hall Discover the rich colors and remarkable range of the clarinet family as the Clarinet Choir takes the stage for its fall concert. Under the direction of Professor of Clarinet Garrick Zoeter, members of the ensemble present a varied program showcasing the warmth, agility and expressive versatility of the instrument. From soaring melodies and intricate textures to the resonant depth of the lower clarinets, this engaging performance celebrates the distinctive sound and collaborative artistry of the clarinet choir.

Shenandoah University Center for the Arts Groundbreaking Armstrong Concert Hall Songs in Rotation Daniel Kelly II, CONTEMPO Touring Ensemble Director Shenandoah Conservatory’s CONTEMPO Touring Ensemble presents an exhilarating evening of music curated and performed by a dynamic group of vocalists and instrumentalists. Rooted in diverse musical traditions, the ensemble presents a vibrant mix of pop, indie, soul, rock and original songs written by its members. Experience heartfelt performances, bold creativity and music that moves and connects.